These heroes could save San Francisco’s defense.

When healthy, Nick Bosa is one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL. His superhuman strength and explosiveness consistently leave opposing offensive tackles throwing their hands up in frustration. He has been a cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers defense in recent years.

But the team has employed a revolving door of edge rushers opposite him, unable to find a long-term complement. Most recently, they spent a first-round pick on Mykel Williams in an attempt to fill the need. While the former Georgia Bulldog still shows signs of promise, his rookie season served as a reminder that he still has plenty of developing to do.

The Niners will need to add another edge defender to their roster this offseason. So soon after using a first-round pick on the position, they may be hesitant to commit major assets to it.

Instead of pursuing the names at the top of the market, San Francisco could bring in Mike Danna as a reliable piece to play opposite Bosa.

Mike Danna could bring out Nick Bosa’s superhuman ability for 49ers

Danna might not be the free agent to satisfy fans in the Bay Area, but he’d be a perfect addition to the 49ers defense. Faced with multiple injuries in 2025, San Francisco was often unable to field a reliable group of edge rushers. Players like Sam Okuayinonu and Yetur Gross-Matos played far bigger roles than intended.

With Bryce Huff’s future with the Niners in doubt, they’ll need to bring in at least one more edge defender in the coming months.

Danna could be the low-cost option they need.

The former Kansas City Chiefs defender has held down a starting role on a Super Bowl-caliber team for the last three years, but he isn’t drawing much attention as free agency opens.

Danna isn’t necessarily a dominant pass-rusher or an unstoppable run defender, but he’s formidable in both areas. New defensive coordinator Raheem Morris could confidently trot him onto the field without having to cover him up, schematically. That certainty would allow him to focus on putting Bosa in positions to make game-changing plays.

The 49ers have multiple needs to address this offseason and limited money to work with. Spotrac estimates that Danna will earn just $4.9 million per year on his next deal. John Lynch could secure the edge position with this signing, allowing him to spend more resources on the rest of the roster.

With Danna by his side, Bosa could return to the dominance that fans have come to expect.